Italians living in Italy do not celebrate Thanksgiving. However, this holiday has been fully embraced and celebrated by Italian-Americans from the moment these immigrants touched down on North American soil. Italians are known to love any holiday or celebration that brings family and friends together in one place, gathered around the dinner table. Italian Thanksgiving has developed into something unique in itself; a perfect combination of traditional American Thanksgiving dishes with a significant touch of Italian specialties. 

Growing up in an Italian-American household, it is not unusual for children to grow up thinking spiedini or pasta al forno (baked pasta) were typical dishes found at every family's Thanksgiving. This is most likely because the first generation Italian-Americans were very unfamiliar with turkey when they moved to the US. Turkey is not easy to find in Italy. As these families continued to grow and further embrace American traditions, turkey has been added to the Italian Thanksgiving menu. Don't completely scratch the pasta though! 

The Italian mindset aligns with the traditional Thanksgiving mindset being that the more food the better! Thanksgiving is statistically America's second favorite holiday (Christmas continually taking the 1st place spot). Whether you are looking to add a new dish to this top ranking holiday, or if you are just curious how Italian's take on Thanksgiving, read on to discover a few of our favorite dishes to include in an Italian Thanksgiving menu. 

Appetizers - Antipasti

Time to get creative. Everyone has arrived to the Thanksgiving celebration with empty stomachs, the turkey is still in the oven, it is not dinner time yet. What do you do? Keep everyone happy with a great display of antipasti. 

Ottimo Festa Antipasti Platter 

The key to a great antipasti spread is variety. A few types of salami, cheese, olives, spreads, and crackers and you are good to go. This encourages everyone to try something new while also working as a great conversation starter surrounding what everything is! Arrange them beautifully on a board and watch them slowly disappear over great conversation. Our Ottimo Festa Set includes 3 cured salume, 5 cheeses ranging in texture ,flavor, and age, breadsticks, crackers and 3 antipasti vegetables and spreads. 

Sicilian Fig and Prosciutto Bruschetta 

These easy to make bruschetta will go fast! We love this recipe because it is so delicious, simple... and you don't need a fig tree in your backyard to pull it off! This recipe features one of our favorite products, Villa Reale Sicilian Fig Jam. Made using the highest quality figs grown on the island of Sicily, this fig jam delivers a perfect earthy, rich fig flavor.

Main Courses

Pancetta Turkey

For a 12 to 15 lb turkey, add 1 lb of Volpi Pancetta to a food processor and pulse until it forms a paste. Add to a bowl with about 10 minced cloves of garlic, the zest of 4 lemons, 1/2 cup of chopped parsley, red pepper flakes to taste, and 3 tablespoons of chopped capers. Mix together. Add pancetta mix evenly under the turkey skin. Baste turkey, cook accordingly and enjoy the Italian flare your Pancetta Turkey has to offer. 

Italian Stuffing

Side Dishes

Parmigiano Reggiano Mashed Potatoes 

It is no secret that mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple. This year, bring out your favorite mashed potato recipe, add in a few tablespoons of Parmigiano Reggiano, and experience perfection. This small enhancement of an otherwise traditional side dish will have everyone asking, "what is your secret?"

Arancini

 You read that right! Arancini makes for a great Thanksgiving side dish. Thanksgiving is famous for comfort food that warms you up and nourishes your soul. Arancini are the ultimate comfort food! We recommend making 2 arancini per person, these creamy, delicious rice balls go fast! 

Dessert

Frutta Martorana 

In Sicily, handmade marzipan is a beloved holiday tradition. Fratelli Motta's Frutta Martorana marzipan are formed in the shape of miniature fruits and vegetables and hand-painted. Guaranteed to add a touch of color and sweetness to any holiday celebration.

Panettone

Panettone has been a hallmark of Italian holiday celebrations for centuries, and Thanksgiving is no exception. In addition to the pumpkin pie, Panettone is a staple at Italian Thanksgivings. We have a panettone that will satisfy everyone's tastebuds. From traditional to salted caramel, limoncello, and amaretto, there is something for everyone. New to panettone? Discover more about the history  of this traditional cake here. 

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Corporate Gifts

We understand how important it is to create a lasting impression for your associates and clients. Whether you are a small business or an enterprise level company with employees located across the USA, we love creating unique Italian gourmet gifts that not only showcase some of the finest Italian imported foods, but showcase the essence of your company at the same time.  Treat your clients, colleagues, and employees with Italian bites that will leave a long lasting impression far after the food has been devoured. 

For more information or to place a customized order please contact Francesca at francesca@ditalia.com or chat us directly at ditalia.com.